U.S. patent application number 17/591275 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-04 for valve device.
This patent application is currently assigned to GATE CFV SOLUTIONS, INC. The applicant listed for this patent is Peter Brooke, Gillian Callaghan, Michael Cheney, Dustin Hartsfield, Jacob Lockwood, JOHN NEWTON, Rory Pawl. Invention is credited to Peter Brooke, Gillian Callaghan, Michael Cheney, Dustin Hartsfield, Jacob Lockwood, JOHN NEWTON, Rory Pawl.
Application Number | 20220241738 17/591275 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006182555 |
Filed Date | 2022-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220241738 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
NEWTON; JOHN ; et
al. |
August 4, 2022 |
VALVE DEVICE
Abstract
Examples disclosed herein relate to an assembly including a CF
Valve coupled to a solenoid and an inlet area on a first plane, an
outlet area located on a second plane, and a flow path which passes
through the CF Valve and the solenoid to the outlet area on at
least a portion of the first plane.
Inventors: |
NEWTON; JOHN; (Sebastian,
FL) ; Brooke; Peter; (Micco, FL) ; Lockwood;
Jacob; (Vero Beach, FL) ; Hartsfield; Dustin;
(Sebastian, FL) ; Cheney; Michael; (Vero Beach,
FL) ; Callaghan; Gillian; (Vero Beach, FL) ;
Pawl; Rory; (West Bloomfield, MI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
NEWTON; JOHN
Brooke; Peter
Lockwood; Jacob
Hartsfield; Dustin
Cheney; Michael
Callaghan; Gillian
Pawl; Rory |
Sebastian
Micco
Vero Beach
Sebastian
Vero Beach
Vero Beach
West Bloomfield |
FL
FL
FL
FL
FL
FL
MI |
US
US
US
US
US
US
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GATE CFV SOLUTIONS, INC
Sebastian
FL
|
Family ID: |
1000006182555 |
Appl. No.: |
17/591275 |
Filed: |
February 2, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
63145047 |
Feb 3, 2021 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01F 2101/14 20220101;
B01F 23/45 20220101 |
International
Class: |
B01F 23/45 20060101
B01F023/45 |
Claims
1. A valve assembly comprising: a CF Valve; a solenoid coupled to
the CF Valve; an inlet area coupled to the CF Valve; an outlet
area; and a flow path that has a path through the CF Valve and the
solenoid to the outlet area; wherein the CF Valve and the solenoid
are located on a plane.
2. The valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising a plunger
coupled to the inlet area and in communication with the CF
Valve.
3. The valve assembly of claim 2, further comprising a plunger
opening device located between the CF Valve and the plunger.
4. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the solenoid is
configured to be pulsed to generate a flow rate.
5. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the solenoid is
configured to be pulsed based on a duty cycle.
6. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the solenoid is
configured to modify a flow rate based on an electrical power level
delivered to the solenoid.
7. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the solenoid further
comprises a solenoid adjustment device.
8. The valve assembly of claim 7, wherein the solenoid adjustment
device is configured to change a height of the solenoid.
9. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the CF Valve includes a
housing having axially aligned inlet and outlet ports adapted to be
connected respectively to the variable fluid supply and the fluid
outlet; a diaphragm chamber interposed between the inlet and the
outlet ports, the inlet port being separated from the diaphragm
chamber by a barrier wall, the barrier wall having a first
passageway extending therethrough from an inner side facing the
diaphragm chamber to an outer side facing the inlet port; a cup
contained within the diaphragm chamber, the cup having a
cylindrical side wall extending from a bottom wall facing the
outlet port to a circular rim surrounding an open mouth facing the
inner side of the barrier wall, the cylindrical side and bottom
walls of the cup being spaced inwardly from adjacent interior
surfaces of the housing to define a second passageway connecting
the diaphragm chamber to the outlet port; a resilient disc-shaped
diaphragm closing the open mouth of the cup, the diaphragm being
axially supported by the circular rim and having a peripheral
flange overlapping the cylindrical side wall; a piston assembly
secured to the center of the diaphragm, the piston assembly having
a cap on one side of the diaphragm facing the inner side of the
barrier wall, and a base suspended from the opposite side of the
diaphragm and projecting into the interior of the cup; a stem
projecting from the cap through the first passageway in the barrier
wall to terminate in a valve head, the valve head and the outer
side of the barrier wall being configured to define a control
orifice connecting the inlet port to the diaphragm chamber via the
first passageway; and a spring device in the cup coacting with the
base of the piston assembly for resiliently urging the diaphragm
into a closed position against the inner side of the barrier wall
to thereby prevent fluid flow from the inlet port via the first
passageway into the diaphragm chamber, the spring device being
responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined level applied to
the diaphragm via the inlet port and the first passageway by
accommodating movement of the diaphragm away from the inner side of
the barrier wall, with the valve head on the stem being moved to
adjust the size of the control orifice, thereby maintaining a
constant flow of fluid from the inlet port through the first and
second passageways to the outlet port for delivery to the fluid
outlet.
10. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the CF Valve is
configured to maintain a relative constant flow of fluid from a
variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet, the CF Valve
including: a) a valve housing having an inlet port and an outlet
port adapted to be connected to the variable pressure fluid supply
and the fluid outlet; b) a diaphragm chamber interposed between the
inlet port and the outlet port; c) a cup contained within the
diaphragm chamber; d) a diaphragm closing the cup; e) a piston
assembly secured to a center of the diaphragm, the piston assembly
having a cap and a base; f) a stem projecting from the cap through
a first passageway in a barrier wall to terminate in a valve head;
and g) a spring in the cup coacting with the base of the piston
assembly for urging the diaphragm into a closed position, and the
spring being responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined
level to adjust a size of a control orifice.
11. The valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the CF Valve is
configured to maintain a relative constant flow of fluid from a
variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet, the CF Valve
including: a base having a wall segment terminating in an upper
rim, and a projecting first flange; a cap having a projecting ledge
and a projecting second flange, the wall segment of the base being
located inside the cap with a space between the upper rim of the
base and the projecting ledge of the cap; a barrier wall
subdividing an interior of a housing into a head section and a base
section; a modulating assembly subdividing the base section into a
fluid chamber and a spring chamber; an inlet in the cap for
connecting the head section to a fluid source; a port in the
barrier wall connecting the head section to the fluid chamber, the
port being aligned with a central first axis of the CF Valve; an
outlet in the cap communicating with the fluid chamber, the outlet
being aligned on a second axis transverse to the first axis; a stem
projecting from the modulating assembly along the first axis
through the port into the head section; a diaphragm supporting the
modulating assembly within the housing for movement in opposite
directions along the first axis, a spring in the spring chamber,
the spring being arranged to urge the modulating assembly into a
closed position at which the diaphragm is in sealing contact with
the barrier wall, and the spring being responsive to fluid pressure
above a predetermined level to adjust a size of a control
orifice.
12. An assembly comprising: a CF Valve coupled to a solenoid and an
inlet area on a first plane; an outlet area located on a second
plane; and a flow path which passes through the CF Valve and the
solenoid to the outlet area on at least a portion of the first
plane.
13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the inlet area further
includes a plunger in communication with the CF Valve.
14. The assembly of claim 13, further comprising a plunger opening
device located between the CF Valve and the plunger.
15. The assembly of claim 12, further comprising a backing
block.
16. The assembly of claim 12, further comprising a CF Valve outlet
ring.
17. The assembly of claim 12, further comprising a spring cavity
vent.
18. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the solenoid further
comprises a solenoid adjustment device.
19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the solenoid adjustment
device is configured to change a height of the solenoid.
20. The assembly of claim 19, wherein changing the height of the
solenoid changes a flow rate.
Description
REFERENCE
[0001] The present application claims priority to Provisional
Patent Application No. 63/145,047 filed Feb. 3, 2021 which is
incorporated in its entirety by reference.
FIELD
[0002] The subject matter disclosed herein relates to utilizing CF
Valve functionality in a CF Valve assembly which can include a CF
Valve, a solenoid, a connecting device, and/or a plunger. More
specifically, to a CF Valve functionality that allows for enhanced
fluid control.
INFORMATION
[0003] The dispensing industry has numerous ways to dispense one or
more fluids and/or gases. This disclosure highlights enhanced
devices, methods, and systems for dispensing these one or more
fluids and/or gases.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0004] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive examples will be described
with reference to the following figures, wherein like reference
numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figures.
[0005] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a CF Valve with a plunger and a
solenoid, according to one embodiment.
[0006] FIG. 2A is an illustration of a CF Valve assembly in a
closed position and a closed solenoid, according to one
embodiment.
[0007] FIG. 2B is an illustration of a CF Valve assembly in a
regulating position and an opened solenoid, according to one
embodiment.
[0008] FIG. 3 is an illustration of a CF Valve assembly with a
twist release locking system, according to one embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 4A is an illustration of a CF Valve assembly, according
to one embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 4B is another illustration of a CF Valve assembly,
according to one embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 5 is an illustration of multiple CF Valve assemblies,
according to one embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 6A is an illustration of a CF Cartridge, according to
one embodiment.
[0013] FIG. 6B is another illustration of a CF Cartridge, according
to one embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a CF Cartridge, according to
one embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a dispensing device, according
to one embodiment.
[0016] FIG. 9 is an illustration of a CF Valve, according to one
embodiment.
[0017] FIG. 10 is an illustration of a CF Valve, according to one
embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 11 is an illustration of a CF Valve, according to one
embodiment.
[0019] FIGS. 12A-12C are illustration of a pulsing the solenoid
system, according to various embodiments.
[0020] FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a system, according to one
embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0021] In FIG. 1, an illustration of a CF Valve with a plunger and
a solenoid is shown, according to one embodiment. A CF Valve
assembly 100 may include a backing block with a twist lock and seal
102, a first portion of a CF Valve body 104, a plunger opening
device 106, a CF Valve outlet ring 108, a spring cavity vent 110, a
plunger body with outlet options 112, a solenoid plunger stroke
adjustment 116, a solenoid coil 118, a solenoid plunger with
closing spring 120, a solenoid isolation diaphragm 122, a solenoid
diaphragm seal surface 124, a second portion of a CF Valve body
126, a throttle pin 128, a CF Valve diaphragm 129, a plunger close
spring 130, a plunger 132, and/or an inlet 134.
[0022] The CF Valve assembly 100 is compact and can be utilized in
modular format (e.g., side by side in small spaces). In addition,
the CF Valve assembly 100 can be utilized with a click lock/turn
lock dry break for ease of installation in tight spaces. Further,
the operating pressure can be customized for the application (e.g.,
14 PSI, 21 PSI, 30 PSI, 40 PSI, 60 PSI (and/or anything in between
and/or anything higher and/or lower)). In addition, the valve can
be scaled up or down to fit any flow rate(s) needed.
[0023] In various examples, the solenoid 202 may be adjustable. For
example, the pull piece height may be adjusted to increase and/or
decrease the relative diameter and/or orifice outlet size (See
reference number 116). In other examples, the adjustment to the
solenoid plunger stroke 116 may be completed mechanical by lowering
or raising the plunger and/or by controlling the power or
electricity by increasing and/or decreasing the power to the
solenoid which causes the lift to increase and/or decrease (See
FIGS. 12A-12C).
[0024] In another example, the outlet metering orifice may be
adjustable. Further, the operating pressure may be adjustable. This
may be accomplished via the CF Valve. In addition, the volcano
outlet area's (reference numbers 124 and 212) shape (e.g., cone,
funnel, bullet, square, cylinder, etc.) may be modified to provide
further fine tuning of the flow rate. Each shape has its own volume
which modifies the flow rate.
[0025] In one example, the CF Valve assembly 100 may be adjusted by
utilizing a fixed orifice. In another example, the CF Valve
assembly 100 may be adjusted by utilizing a needle valve. In
another example, the CF Valve assembly 100 may be adjusted by
utilizing a pulsing on-off functionality via the solenoid (see
FIGS. 12A-12C). In another example, the pulsing pattern and/or
electrical recipes may be loaded into a controller to make multiple
drinks for a bank of valves.
[0026] In one example, the CF Valve with the isolation solenoid has
a flow path that is straight into the CF Valve and straight into
the solenoid where the outlet area can be at any angle but the CF
Valve and the solenoid are at a relative angle of zero with respect
to each other.
[0027] In FIG. 2A, an illustration of a CF Valve assembly in a
closed position and a closed solenoid is shown, according to one
embodiment. A CF Valve assembly 200 may include a solenoid 202, a
CF Valve 204, a plunger 206, an inlet area 208, a fluid flow 201, a
CF Valve diaphragm 210, and/or an outlet 212. In this example, the
fluid flow 201 is stopped at the CF Valve 204 by the CF Valve
diaphragm 210.
[0028] In FIG. 2B, an illustration of a CF Valve assembly in a
regulating position and an opened solenoid is shown, according to
one embodiment. In this example, a CF Valve assembly 200 may have
the fluid flow 201 pass by the CF Valve 204 because CF Valve
diaphragm 210 is open. Further, the fluid flow 201 travels to the
outlet 212 and leaves the outlet 212 with specific fluid flow
characteristics (e.g., PSI, flow rate, timing, etc.). It should be
noted that the fluid flow path goes straight into the CF Valve and
the solenoid. This configuration is unique and allows for a compact
structure to be utilized.
[0029] In FIG. 3, an illustration of a CF Valve assembly with a
twist release system is shown, according to one embodiment. In one
example, a CF Valve assembly 300 is separated into two parts. A
first part is the plunger 206 with the inlet 208 and the fluid flow
201 and a second part is the CF Valve and the solenoid. In this
example, the plunger 206 (e.g., first part) may be connected to the
CF Valve and the solenoid (e.g., second part) by twisting and
locking the plunger 206 onto the second part (See FIG. 4B). In this
example, the plunger 206 is opened via a plunger opening device 302
which pushes the plunger 206 open (See FIGS. 2A-2B).
[0030] In one example, the turn and lock feature can be any design
and can also be a dry break. In addition, it can be female to male
or male to female interconnections. In one example, the connecting
device may be locked and/or unlocked by pushing a first time on the
connecting device to lock it into place and then pushing a second
time on the connecting device to unlock the device. In another
example, a clip feature is utilized which can be located on the
front and/or on the rear of the connecting device. In one example,
the CF Valve area is the male portion and the plunger area is the
female portion. In another example, the CF Valve area is the female
portion and the plunger area is the male portion. In various other
examples, the female portion on the CF Valve area may utilize tabs
on either the internal component area or the external component
area to engage with the plunger area. In one example, the valve
system allows fluid to flow only when the valve is placed in the
dry break.
[0031] In FIG. 4A, an illustration of a CF Valve assembly is shown,
according to one embodiment. In this example, a CF Valve assembly
400 includes a solenoid area 402, a CF Valve area 404, and/or a
plunger area 406. The CF Valve assembly 400 may include one or more
inlet areas 422 and one or more outlet areas 424. In this example,
only one inlet area and outlet area are shown.
[0032] In FIG. 4B, another illustration of a CF Valve assembly is
shown, according to one embodiment. In this example, a CF Valve
assembly 420 is shown where the plunger area 406 is attached to the
CF Valve area 404 via a twist and lock device. The twist and lock
device includes a locking area 426 and locking pin 428. In
addition, CF Valve assembly 420 includes an inlet area 422 and an
outlet area 424. The inlet area 422 has a straight in configuration
in relation to the plunger area 406, the CF Valve area 404, and/or
the solenoid area 402. Whereas, the outlet area 424 is at a 90
degree angle to the inlet area 422, the plunger area 406, the CF
Valve area 404, and/or the solenoid area 402. The outlet area 424
may be at any angle (e.g., 0 degrees . . . , 20 degrees . . . , 45
degrees . . . , 90 degrees . . . , . . . 180 degrees, and/or . . .
360 degrees). For brevity, all of the various degrees from 0.1 to
359.9 are not written out. However, all of these degrees are part
of the present disclosure.
[0033] In various examples, values for the pressure, the flow rate,
and the outlet area angle can be modified. For example, a pressure
of 1 PSI . . . , 2 PSI . . . , 3 PSI . . . , 4 PSI . . . , 5 PSI .
. . , 6 PSI . . . , 7 PSI . . . , 8 PSI . . . , 9 PSI . . . , 10
PSI . . . , 11 PSI . . . , 12 PSI . . . , 13 PSI . . . , 14 PSI . .
. , 15 PSI . . . , 16 PSI . . . , 17 PSI . . . , 18 PSI . . . , 19
PSI . . . , 20 PSI . . . , 21 PSI . . . , 22 PSI . . . , 23 PSI . .
. , 24 PSI . . . , 25 PSI . . . , 26 PSI . . . , 27 PSI . . . , 28
PSI . . . , 29 PSI . . . , 30 PSI . . . , 31 PSI . . . , 32 PSI . .
. , 33 PSI . . . , 34 PSI . . . , 35 PSI . . . , 36 PSI . . . , 37
PSI . . . , 38 PSI . . . , 39 PSI . . . , 40 PSI . . . , 41 PSI . .
. , 42 PSI . . . , 43 PSI . . . , 44 PSI . . . , 45 PSI . . . , 46
PSI . . . , 47 PSI . . . , 48 PSI . . . , 49 PSI . . . , 50 PSI . .
. , 51 PSI . . . , 52 PSI . . . , 53 PSI . . . , 54 PSI . . . , 55
PSI . . . , 56 PSI . . . , 57 PSI . . . , 58 PSI . . . , 59 PSI . .
. , 60 PSI . . . , 61 PSI . . . , 62 PSI . . . , 63 PSI . . . , 64
PSI . . . , 65 PSI . . . , 66 PSI . . . , 67 PSI . . . , 68 PSI . .
. , 69 PSI . . . , 70 PSI . . . , 71 PSI . . . , 72 PSI . . . , 73
PSI . . . , 74 PSI . . . , 75 PSI . . . , 76 PSI . . . , 77 PSI . .
. , 78 PSI . . . , 79 PSI . . . , 80 PSI . . . , and/or etc. can be
combined with a flow rate (e.g., 0.001 gpm (gallons per minute) to
8 gpm and/or any other number) which can further be combined with
any outlet angle (e.g., 0 degrees, 20 degrees, 45 degrees, 90
degrees, 180 degrees, etc.). For brevity, all of the various
degrees from 0.1 to 359.9 are not written out. However, all of
these degrees are part of the present disclosure.
[0034] For example, a pressure of 15.1 PSI can be utilized with a
flow rate of 0.01 gpm and have an outlet area angle of 2 degrees.
In another example, a pressure of 18 PSI can be utilized with a
flow rate of 0.1 gpm and have an outlet area angle of 90 degrees.
Further, a pressure of 20 PSI can be utilized with a flow rate of
0.5 gpm and have an outlet area angle of 45 degrees. In addition,
the flow rate may be achieved by pulsing the stream as shown in
FIGS. 12A-12C.
[0035] In FIG. 5, an illustration of multiple CF Valve assemblies
is shown, according to one embodiment. In this example, a multiple
CF Valve assembly 500 may include a first CF Valve assembly 502, a
second CF Valve assembly 504, a third CF Valve assembly 506, and/or
an Nth CF Valve assembly 508. In one example, a three flavor
dispensing unit can be created by having the first CF Valve
assembly 502 be a first flavor, the second CF Valve assembly 504 be
a second flavor, the third CF Valve assembly 506 be a third flavor,
and the Nth CF Valve assembly 508 be a water unit (e.g., and/or
carbonated water unit).
[0036] In another example, a two syrup and one flavor shot
dispensing unit can be created by having the first CF Valve
assembly 502 be a first syrup, the second CF Valve assembly 504 be
a second syrup, the third CF Valve assembly 506 be a first flavor
shot, and the Nth CF Valve assembly 508 be a water unit (e.g.,
and/or carbonated water unit).
[0037] In another example, the dispensing unit may have two waters
(e.g., carbonated and still) and one or more syrups. In this
example, sparkling water can be generated by utilizing 1/2 still
and 1/2 carbonated with the one or more syrups.
[0038] In another example, the solenoid may be pulsed to generate a
flow rate. Further, the solenoid may be pulsed based on a duty
cycle. In addition, the solenoid may modify a flow rate based on an
electrical power level delivered to the solenoid.
[0039] In one embodiment, a valve assembly may include: a CF Valve;
a solenoid coupled to the CF Valve; an inlet area coupled to the CF
Valve; an outlet area; and/or a flow path that has a path through
the CF Valve and the solenoid to the outlet area where the CF Valve
and the solenoid are located on a plane.
[0040] In another example, the valve assembly may include a plunger
coupled to the inlet area and in communication with the CF Valve.
In addition, the valve assembly may include a plunger opening
device located between the CF Valve and the plunger. Further, the
valve assembly may include a backing block. In addition, the valve
assembly may include a CF Valve outlet ring. Further, the valve
assembly may include a spring cavity vent. In addition, the
solenoid may include a solenoid adjustment device. Further, the
solenoid adjustment device may change a height of the solenoid. In
addition, the CF Valve may include a housing having axially aligned
inlet and outlet ports adapted to be connected respectively to the
variable fluid supply and the fluid outlet; a diaphragm chamber
interposed between the inlet and the outlet ports, the inlet port
being separated from the diaphragm chamber by a barrier wall, the
barrier wall having a first passageway extending therethrough from
an inner side facing the diaphragm chamber to an outer side facing
the inlet port; a cup contained within the diaphragm chamber, the
cup having a cylindrical side wall extending from a bottom wall
facing the outlet port to a circular rim surrounding an open mouth
facing the inner side of the barrier wall, the cylindrical side and
bottom walls of the cup being spaced inwardly from adjacent
interior surfaces of the housing to define a second passageway
connecting the diaphragm chamber to the outlet port; a resilient
disc-shaped diaphragm closing the open mouth of the cup, the
diaphragm being axially supported by the circular rim and having a
peripheral flange overlapping the cylindrical side wall; a piston
assembly secured to the center of the diaphragm, the piston
assembly having a cap on one side of the diaphragm facing the inner
side of the barrier wall, and a base suspended from the opposite
side of the diaphragm and projecting into the interior of the cup;
a stem projecting from the cap through the first passageway in the
barrier wall to terminate in a valve head, the valve head and the
outer side of the barrier wall being configured to define a control
orifice connecting the inlet port to the diaphragm chamber via the
first passageway; and a spring device in the cup coacting with the
base of the piston assembly for resiliently urging the diaphragm
into a closed position against the inner side of the barrier wall
to thereby prevent fluid flow from the inlet port via the first
passageway into the diaphragm chamber, the spring device being
responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined level applied to
the diaphragm via the inlet port and the first passageway by
accommodating movement of the diaphragm away from the inner side of
the barrier wall, with the valve head on the stem being moved to
adjust the size of the control orifice, thereby maintaining a
constant flow of fluid from the inlet port through the first and
second passageways to the outlet port for delivery to the fluid
outlet. Further, the CF Valve may maintain a relative constant flow
of fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet,
the CF Valve including: a) a valve housing having an inlet port and
an outlet port adapted to be connected to the variable pressure
fluid supply and the fluid outlet; b) a diaphragm chamber
interposed between the inlet port and the outlet port; c) a cup
contained within the diaphragm chamber; d) a diaphragm closing the
cup; e) a piston assembly secured to a center of the diaphragm, the
piston assembly having a cap and a base; f) a stem projecting from
the cap through a first passageway in a barrier wall to terminate
in a valve head; and g) a spring in the cup coacting with the base
of the piston assembly for urging the diaphragm into a closed
position, and the spring being responsive to fluid pressure above a
predetermined level to adjust a size of a control orifice. In
addition, the CF Valve may maintain a relative constant flow of
fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet, the
CF Valve including: a base having a wall segment terminating in an
upper rim, and a projecting first flange; a cap having a projecting
ledge and a projecting second flange, the wall segment of the base
being located inside the cap with a space between the upper rim of
the base and the projecting ledge of the cap; a barrier wall
subdividing an interior of a housing into a head section and a base
section; a modulating assembly subdividing the base section into a
fluid chamber and a spring chamber; an inlet in the cap for
connecting the head section to a fluid source; a port in the
barrier wall connecting the head section to the fluid chamber, the
port being aligned with a central first axis of the CF Valve; an
outlet in the cap communicating with the fluid chamber, the outlet
being aligned on a second axis transverse to the first axis; a stem
projecting from the modulating assembly along the first axis
through the port into the head section; a diaphragm supporting the
modulating assembly within the housing for movement in opposite
directions along the first axis, a spring in the spring chamber,
the spring being arranged to urge the modulating assembly into a
closed position at which the diaphragm is in sealing contact with
the barrier wall, and the spring being responsive to fluid pressure
above a predetermined level to adjust a size of a control
orifice.
[0041] In another embodiment, an assembly may include: a CF Valve
coupled to a solenoid and an inlet area on a first plane; an outlet
area located on a second plane; and/or a flow path which passes
through the CF Valve and the solenoid to the outlet area on at
least a portion of the first plane.
[0042] In addition, the inlet area may further include a plunger in
communication with the CF Valve. Further, the assembly may include
a plunger opening device located between the CF Valve and the
plunger. In addition, the assembly may include a backing block. In
addition, the assembly may include a CF Valve outlet ring. Further,
the assembly may include a spring cavity vent. In addition, the
solenoid further comprises a solenoid adjustment device. Further,
the solenoid adjustment device may change a height of the solenoid.
In addition, the changing of the height of the solenoid may change
a flow rate.
[0043] In FIG. 6A, an illustration of a CF Cartridge 600 is shown,
according to one embodiment. The cartridge CF Valve 600 includes a
throttle pin 602, a body 604, a body O-Ring 618, a top retainer
606, a diaphragm 608, a bottom retainer 610, a spring 612, a spring
cap 614, and a spring cap O-Ring 616. The throttle pin 602 may be
stainless steel or other material with a barbed shank and mushroom
shape head. The throttle pin throttles flow of fluid through the
inlet orifice. The body 604 (or the CF Valve body and/or the
cartridge CF Valve body) may be molded plastic forming the inlet
passage. The diaphragm 608 (and/or the diaphragm chamber) is a 360
degree outlet passage and diaphragm sealing surface. The body
O-Ring 618 is a rubber that seals the fluid functioning part of the
cartridge from the housing. The top retainer 606 is a plastic which
forms the top half of the diaphragm assembly where the diaphragm
608 is sandwiched between the two retainers (e.g., top retainer 606
and the bottom retainer 610) to form a seal. There is a molded
cavity in the upper retainer (e.g., top retainer 606) that
positions the barbed shank of the throttle pin 602. The cavity may
be machined and/or any other process of manufacturing a cavity.
[0044] The diaphragm 608 is a flexible rubber (and/or any other
flexible material) shaped to form a seal between the fluid section
and the dry section of the spring cavity. The flex of the diaphragm
608 allows the throttle pin 602 to move in response to the spring
pressure and inlet pressure thus modulating the fluid flow through
the inlet orifice. The bottom retainer 610 is a plastic part which
may be welded (and/or press fitted, and/or any other attachment
procedure (e.g., glued, stamped, etc.) to the upper retainer (e.g.,
top retainer 606) to form the diaphragm assembly. The bottom
retainer 610 also positions the spring 612 in the spring cap 614.
The spring 612 is stainless steel (and/or other similar
material--non corrosive material--the material can be a corrosive
material also since the area is dry) and serves to keep the
diaphragm 608 seated against the sealing ring of the body 604 until
there is sufficient input pressure to compress the spring opening
the valve for normal operation. As the throttle pin 602 is fastened
(could sit on top of--further the spring may not be fastened buy
sits against cap and retainer) to the diaphragm assembly, when the
inlet pressure depresses the diaphragm 608 and/or the spring 612
and the throttle pin 602 closes the inlet orifice reducing the
flow/pressure. There is continuous movement of the spring 612, the
diaphragm assembly and the throttle pin 602 as the valve modulates
and maintains the preset fixed operating pressure.
[0045] The spring cap 614 is usually plastic but can be any
material stiff enough to mitigate any movement of the material that
would change the length of the spring cap cavity. The length of the
cavity is critical because the spring 612 must be preset and/or
compressed to the operating load before the cartridge CF Valve 600
is put into operating. It should be noted that the spring cap 614
creates the seal by compressing the diaphragm 608 to the body 604.
The rubber cap "O" ring is to form a seal so the passage of the
fluid from the body 604 through the housing cannot leak out around
the spring cap 614.
[0046] In FIG. 6B, another illustration of the cartridge CF Valve
600 is shown, according to one embodiment. In this example, the
cartridge CF Valve 600 is shown assembled.
[0047] It should be noted that the cartridge CF Valve 600 shown in
FIGS. 6A-6B are 90 degree versions of the CF Valve configuration.
In the 90 degree version, the CF Valve is configured to maintain a
relative constant flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid
supply to a fluid outlet, the CF Valve may include: a base having a
wall segment terminating in an upper rim, and a projecting first
flange; a cap having a projecting ledge and a projecting second
flange, the wall segment of the base being located inside the cap
with a space between the upper rim of the base and the projecting
ledge of the cap; a barrier wall subdividing an interior of a
housing into a head section and a base section; a modulating
assembly subdividing the base section into a fluid chamber and a
spring chamber; an inlet in the cap for connecting the head section
to a fluid source; a port in the barrier wall connecting the head
section to the fluid chamber, the port being aligned with a central
first axis of the CF Valve; an outlet in the cap communicating with
the fluid chamber, the outlet being aligned on a second axis
transverse to the first axis; a stem projecting from the modulating
assembly along the first axis through the port into the head
section; a diaphragm supporting the modulating assembly within the
housing for movement in opposite directions along the first axis, a
spring in the spring chamber, the spring being arranged to urge the
modulating assembly into a closed position at which the diaphragm
is in sealing contact with the barrier wall, and the spring being
responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined level to adjust
a size of a control orifice. It should be noted that any
characteristics and/or features shown and/or described in relation
to the 90 degree version can be utilized with the cartridge CF
Valve 600.
[0048] In another example, a straight through version of the CF
Valve can be utilized with any feature and/or function shown and/or
described in relation to the the cartridge CF Valve 600. In this
example, the CF Valve is configured to maintain a relative constant
flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid
outlet, the CF Valve including: a) a valve housing having an inlet
port and an outlet port adapted to be connected to the variable
pressure fluid supply and the fluid outlet; b) a diaphragm chamber
interposed between the inlet port and the outlet port; c) a cup
contained within the diaphragm chamber; d) a diaphragm closing the
cup; e) a piston assembly secured to a center of the diaphragm, the
piston assembly having a cap and a base; f) a stem projecting from
the cap through a first passageway in a barrier wall to terminate
in a valve head; and g) a spring in the cup coacting with the base
of the piston assembly for urging the diaphragm into a closed
position, and the spring being responsive to fluid pressure above a
predetermined level to adjust a size of a control orifice. It
should be noted that any characteristics and/or features shown
and/or described in relation to the straight through version can be
utilized with the cartridge CF Valve 600. In this example, an
outlet port 624 is at a 90 degree angle to the inlet port.
[0049] Further as shown in FIG. 7, the cartridge CF Valve 702 may
have an inlet port 706 and an outlet port 704 which are parallel
with each other but offset from each other.
[0050] In another example shown in FIGS. 6A-6B, a new flow control
manifold with the Cartridge CF Valve can be assembled as a single
welded part each with a fixed or replaceable orifice and/or a Brix
screw. This welded Cartridge CFV Valve can be integrated into an
existing design or provide an entirely new flow control manifold to
be secured inside existing equipment or on or under the counter for
certain applications. In this example, the Cartridge CF Valve is
retrofit compatible with existing flow connector (same inlets and
outlets). It is simple to remove the existing flow control manifold
and replace with a new flow control manifold. In this example, the
existing clips/fasteners and shut off components may be reused.
Design considerations are fixed or adjustable orifices and the
Cartridge CF Valve can be mechanically fastened or welded. In
addition, a single SKU for the entire manifold can be used and/or
for each valve assembly.
[0051] The Cartridge CF Valve is designed to provide a constant
rate of fluid flow at a preset pressure when coupled with a
down-stream orifice. The CF Valve can be a 90 degree valve, a
straight through valve, any combination thereof, and/or any other
degree configuration. The Cartridge CF Valve may have a factory set
operating pressure from 7.5 psi to 70 psi. In addition, a wide
range of flow rates can be used (e.g., 0.01 gpm (gallons per
minute) to 8 gpm and/or any other number). There are no wetted
mechanicals in the CF Valve, according to one embodiment. There are
no ceramics in the CF Valve, according to one embodiment. The CF
Valve is self-cleaning, according to one embodiment. In one
example, the inlet orifice is smaller than any internal passage.
Therefore, no internal clogging occurs. There is minimal wear
because the internal components only see operating pressure. In
addition, there is no wear at static because there is no
movement.
[0052] The CFiVe new backing block has a male part which attaches
to the female part. In this example, the CFiVe backing block will
turn on or turn off the liquid supply with the same knob movement
that attaches the backing block to the male fitting. This means
that the fluid cannot flow until the Valve is also attached,
according to one embodiment. In this example, the new attachment
device (male part and female part) dramatically reduces the space
requirements (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 inches) as it
is smaller and does not require wire inserts for placement/removal
of Valves, allowing the CFiVe backing blocks to be placed closer to
one another. This allows for backing blocks to be placed closer
together for applications where multiple valves are utilized and
space is constrained or for applications where the location of the
valve is close to the cooling or heating element or point of
dispense is critical.
[0053] In FIG. 8, a dispensing device 802 is shown with a control
orifice inside the bar gun which may be set to factory settings.
The Cartridge CF Valve 804 can be assembled with the orifice inside
the CF Valve a factory set flow rate to eliminate tampering with
the orifice and therefore the flow rates. The cartridge CF Valve is
symmetrical so that no indexing is required when assembling. The
spring cap is sized and molded to be slightly loose on the housing
so that if the stack tolerances are all on the plus side the
pressure on the diaphragm will still be sufficient to cause a seal.
In another example, the cartridge CF Valve may have a fixed
orifice. In another example, the orifice may be in the outlet side
which also the orifice to be replaceable. It should be noted that
the disclosure relating to the bar gun may be utilized with any
other equipment in this disclosure. Further, all disclosures
relating to one element (e.g., the ball, the CF Valve, the
Cartridge CF Valve, the backing block, the needle, etc.) may be
utilized with any other disclosure relating to any other element
(e.g., the ball, the CF Valve, the Cartridge CF Valve, the backing
block, the needle, etc.). For example, the ball disclosure may be
combined with the cartridge CF Valve disclosure. Further, one
feature (and/or one or more features) of the ball disclosure may be
combined with one feature (and/or one more features) of the
cartridge CF Valve disclosure. For brevity, all of the other items
disclosed in this disclosure will not be listed out but are
inherently combinable in this disclosure.
[0054] In one example, a CF Valve may encounter with a line
pressure of 100 PSI and an outlet pressure of 40 PSI when the
outlet is open. Further, the CF Valve may encounter a line pressure
of 100 PSI and an outlet pressure of 100 PSI because the pin is not
closed. In addition, the CF Valve may encounter a line pressure of
100 PSI and an outlet pressure of 46 PSI because the pin is
closed.
[0055] In FIG. 9, a magnetically activated ball valve device 900
has been added to regulating valve 910 where the magnetically
activated ball valve device 900 is located in a position relative
to the inlet (e.g., incoming fluid). In this example, the
magnetically activated ball valve device includes an opening, a
ball, and a magnetic device. In other embodiments, the ball valve
device 900 may be activated by the fluid flow, mechanical
functionality (e.g., levers, etc.), magnetic functionality, and/or
any combination of movement devices.
[0056] In FIG. 10, an illustration of a CF Valve system is shown,
according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 demonstrates the operations of
the CFValve technology, which can precisely control flow rate and
pressure. Therefore, accurate accounting may be completed to
determine inventory drawl and/or utilization. In other words, based
on the amount of time the CFValve is opened and/or operated, one or
more calculations can be completed relating to syrup used (e.g.,
syrup 1 used x units, syrup 2 used y units, etc.), cups sold, etc.
For example, based on the information that the CFvalve was open for
10 hours; 3 minutes; and 13 seconds during a first day, the system,
device, and/or method may determine that 10,000 units of syrup 1
were used with 40,000 units of CO2 or water. This information can
be combined with inventory data to provide a just in time delivery
cycle. Further, similar information for a plurality of syrups can
determine sales growth relative to each other, which can indicate
one or more opportunities and/or issues. In another example, based
on information from the CFValve usage, syrup 1 used 300 units
whereas syrup 2 used only 80 units. Since syrup 2 performance
relative to syrup 1 is outside a historical trend line, one or more
actions (e.g., maintenance call, syrup container inspection,
on-site marketing visit, etc.) may be taken. A CFValve 1000 may
include a housing 1002, a spring force 1004, a throttle pin 1006,
an inlet orifice 1008, and a throttle pin head 1010.
[0057] In these various examples, various pressures (e.g., 30 PSI
to 70 PSI) are utilized which results in consistent average flow
rates with relatively little movement from the targeted value.
Therefore, even with varying pressures the CF Valve delivers
consistent flow rate and target values. In various test results
where a first product, a second product, and an Nth product were
utilized with various results. In these examples, the target pour
was achieved with a maximum plus of 2 percent and a maximum minus
of 0.5 percent.
[0058] In one example, a CFValve dispensing system may including
one or more processors, one or more liquid dispensing areas and an
ice dispensing area. The CFValve dispensing system may communicate
with the Internet and/or one or more remote devices via one or more
connects utilizing one or more processors in CFValve dispensing
system. In various examples, information relating to temperatures,
pressures, mixtures, flow rates, cleanings, ice amounts, time of
day usage, inventories, orders of inventory, maintenance needed,
maintenance completed, pricing information, promotional
information, promotional effects, and/or any other data in this
disclosure may be communicated to and/or from CFValve dispensing
system to and/or from the Internet (and/or any remote devices). In
one example, the system, device, and/or method may transmit data,
which shows a drop off of syrup unit sales right after a cleaning
cycle which recovers the next day. This may be based on the flush
out function being improperly completed. In other words, there is
left over cleaning fluid in the lines which provides a bad taste
until it washes out. In another example, when fountain drinks go on
sale by 10 percent the amount sold increases by 5 percent--this
information is determined utilizing data from the CFValve. In a
specific example, when fountain drinks go on sale by 10 percent the
amount sold of syrup 1 goes up by 15 percent whereas sales of syrup
2 stay flat. In another example, when fountain drinks go on sale by
20 percent sales go up by 25 percent.
[0059] With the fixed flow that is created by the CFValve--in any
form, CFIVE, Discrete, CFV Cartridge, and/or CFValve 1.times.,
2.times.-3. The dispensing system may utilize simple data gathering
to gain very important information.
[0060] For example, with a discrete CFValve running at a fixed flow
the "on-time" of the solenoid can be captured and reported. With
that ON time you can automatically calculate drinks dispensed (to
compare to point of sales data), flavors preferred, inventory used
(automatic inventory control and reordering), and even CO2 utilized
for reordering CO2. Other useful customer behavior can be
gathered--size per drink dispensed, number of actuations to fill a
single cup, etc.
[0061] If this is combined with a touch screen or display screen
(on top of machine or on each valve) it can also add custom
graphics and/or advertisements to promote customer behaviors. There
can be an automatic "sold out" notification when inventory is
out--it can suggest an alternate drink when syrup is low or
out.
[0062] The owner of the store (c-store, restaurant, fast food) or
the beverage supplier can gather information on trends
immediately--drinks that sell at certain times of days or days of
the week, movement in preference for types of beverages dispensed,
and this information can be agglomerated by market or nationwide to
spot and take advantage of trends
[0063] This drink dispensing device data may be combined with other
data on food, gas, liquor, cigarette, and/or lottery sales to
determine customer behavior for better marketing, product
placement, etc.
[0064] In FIG. 11, an illustration of a CF Valve 1100 is shown,
according to one embodiment. In one example, the CF Valve 1100 may
include a spring cap 1102, a first spring 1104, a second spring
1106, a first retainer bottom 1108, a second retainer bottom 1110,
a first diaphragm 1112, a second diaphragm 1114, a first retainer
top 1116, a second retainer top 1118, a first CFValve body 1120, a
second CFValve body 1122, a first throttle pin 1124, a second
throttle pin 1126, a third throttle pin 1128, a first o-ring 1130,
a second o-ring 1132, a seal insert 1134, an o-ring seal insert
1136, one or more solenoids 1138, a syrup orifice 1142, a water
orifice 1144, and an o-ring diffuser 1144. In various examples, the
first spring 1104 is 1.75.times., the second spring 1106 is
1.0.times., the first retainer bottom 1108 is 1.75.times., the
second retainer bottom 1110 is 1.0.times., the first diaphragm 1112
is 1.75.times., the second diaphragm 1114 is 1.0.times., the first
retainer top 1116 is 1.75.times., the second retainer top 1118 is
1.0.times., the first CFValve body 1120 is 1.75.times., the second
CFValve body 1122 is 1.0.times., the first throttle pin 1124 is
1.75.times., and the second throttle pin 1126 is 1.0.times..
[0065] In FIGS. 12A-C, illustrations of a lift solenoid are shown,
according to one embodiment. In one example, a CF Isolation Valve
1200 may include a housing 1202, a solenoid 1204, a plunger 1206,
and an exiting flow rate 1208. FIG. 12A shows the CF Isolation
Valve 1200 in a closed position because the plunger 1206 blocks the
flow. In FIG. 12B, the plunger is lifted by 0.010'' 1212 which
creates a second flow rate 1214. Further, in FIG. 12C, the plunger
is lifted by 0.020'' 1222 which creates a third flow rate 1224
where the third flow rate 1224 is greater than the second flow rate
1214 because the first lift (e.g., 0.010'') is smaller than the
second lift (e.g., 0.020'').
[0066] The solenoid pull piece or seals on the opening (volcano)
when it is in a shut position, it lifts off that opening to allow
for flow through. If the solenoid lift is modulated so that the
pull piece lifts higher or lower depending on the desired flow rate
it can be used to modulate flow when coupled with a CFValve
upstream
[0067] With the constant pressure upstream from the CFValve, the
Solenoid lift can be used to increase or decrease flow rate. This
can be done manually (tightening or loosening the spring that holds
the pull piece in place) or electronically by increasing or
decreasing the power to the solenoid causing the pull piece to lift
higher or lower depending on the electrical signal.
[0068] For example if the opening/volcano is 0.100 inches in
diameter, then the solenoid seal lifts only 0.010 inches off the
seal it will generate a flow rate of A and if it lifts 0.020 inches
off the seal the flow rate will increase as the total flow that
passes through the opening and the solenoid plunger will increase
as more space is allowed.
[0069] The shape of the solenoid plunger or plunger seal and the
shape of the opening can be optimized to allow for fine tune
changing of the flow rate by adding a funnel to the opening and/or
a pointed shape to the solenoid plunger so that as it lifts it
opens only a small amount more (vs. if it were a flat surface
raising off a flat opening).
[0070] In another example, the solenoid can be pulsed on and off to
create a specific flow rate. For example, pulsing the solenoid with
a duty cycle of 1% to 99% can create various flow rates. For
clarity a duty cycle of 100% means the solenoid is open the entire
time period. Whereas, a duty cycle of 50% means the solenoid is
open for 50 percent of the time period. This may be accomplished by
opening the solenoid for 50 percent of the time and then closing
the solenoid. In another example, this may be accomplished by
opening the solenoid for 1 percent of the time and repeating this
50 times during the time period. In another example, this may be
accomplished by opening the solenoid for 10 percent of the time and
repeating this 5 times during the time period. For example,
utilizing a duty cycle of 20% for a first element and a duty cycle
of 66% for a second element will create a first drink
configuration. In one example, water may run at a duty cycle of
100% while a cola runs at a duty cycle of 66% while a rum may run
at a duty cycle of 100 percent and a lime runs at a duty cycle of
20 percent to create a drink dispensed at 1.67 oz/sec of water; 0.5
oz/sec of cola; 1.14 oz/sec of rum; and 0.3 oz/sec of lime.
[0071] In FIG. 13, a block diagram is shown, according to one
embodiment. A device 1300 may include a controller 1302, one or
more processors 1304, one or more memories 1306, one or more
inventory modules 1308, one or more maintenance modules 1310, one
or more cleaning modules 1312, one or more drink dispensing modules
1314, one or more loyalty card modules 1316, one or more cameras
1318, one or more sensors 1320, one or more flavor modules 1322,
one or more number of actuations modules 1324, one or more displays
1326, one or more display modules 1328, one or more time/day
modules 1330, and/or one or more transceivers 1332.
[0072] In another example, syrup control and/or management can be
enhanced because dumping and/or walk away can be tracked. For
example, when a person buys a fountain drink that person may take a
slip and if the taste is not correct that person may dump the
contents of the container and refill with another flavor. This
might indicate that the syrup ratio is out of range and/or another
quality control issue. In addition, the person may just walk away
and not purchase anything which could be an indication that the
syrup ratio is out of range and/or another quality control
issue.
[0073] In another example, the discrete valve may have a dual head.
In one example, the backing block, the CFValve, and the solenoid
all have their own outside skin so there is no need to add another.
Just use the skin of the CFValve to attach to both. The inlet side
of the CFValve can attach to the backing block and the outlet side
of the CFValve to the solenoid. In another example, after exiting
the metering function at 90 degrees, the flow is directed around
the body and out through the center of the outlet housing.
[0074] In one example, a dispensing device includes a valve
configured to interact with an inlet stream, the inlet stream
having a first pressure, the valve having an outlet area with an
outlet stream, the outlet stream having a second pressure, and a
solenoid which interacts with the outlet stream. In addition, the
dispensing device may have: at least one of the inlet stream and
the outlet stream being a carbonated water; the first pressure is
greater than the second pressure; a size of the solenoid is reduced
based on a reduction in pressure from the first pressure to the
second pressure; a size of the solenoid is reduced based on the
valve; the inlet stream is a utility line; the orifice is fixed;
the orifice is adjustable; the orifices are both fixed and
adjustable; and the valve is a CF Valve. The CF Valve is a
regulating valve for maintaining a substantially constant flow of
fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet, the
CFValve may including one or more of: a) a housing having axially
aligned inlet and outlet ports adapted to be connected respectively
to the variable fluid supply and the fluid outlet; b) a diaphragm
chamber interposed between the inlet and the outlet ports, the
inlet port being separated from the diaphragm chamber by a barrier
wall, the barrier wall having a first passageway extending there
through from an inner side facing the diaphragm chamber to an outer
side facing the inlet port; c) a cup contained within the diaphragm
chamber, the cup having a cylindrical side wall extending from a
bottom wall facing the outlet port to a circular rim surrounding an
open mouth facing the inner side of the barrier wall, the
cylindrical side and bottom walls of the cup being spaced inwardly
from adjacent interior surfaces of the housing to define a second
passageway connecting the diaphragm chamber to the outlet port; d)
a resilient disc-shaped diaphragm closing the open mouth of the
cup, the diaphragm being axially supported by the circular rim and
having a peripheral flange overlapping the cylindrical side wall;
e) a piston assembly secured to the center of the diaphragm, the
piston assembly having a cap on one side of the diaphragm facing
the inner side of the barrier wall, and a base suspended from the
opposite side of the diaphragm and projecting into the interior of
the cup; f) a stem projecting from the cap through the first
passageway in the barrier wall to terminate in a valve head, the
valve head and the outer side of the barrier wall being configured
to define a control orifice connecting the inlet port to the
diaphragm chamber via the first passageway; and g) a spring device
in the cup coacting with the base of the piston assembly for
resiliently urging the diaphragm into a closed position against the
inner side of the barrier wall to thereby prevent fluid flow from
the inlet port via the first passageway into the diaphragm chamber,
the spring device being responsive to fluid pressure above a
predetermined level applied to the diaphragm via the inlet port and
the first passageway by accommodating movement of the diaphragm
away from the inner side of the barrier wall, with the valve head
on the stem being moved to adjust the size of the control orifice,
thereby maintaining a constant flow of fluid from the inlet port
through the first and second passageways to the outlet port for
delivery to the fluid outlet.
[0075] In another example, the dispensing device may further
include: a dispensing unit including one or more flavor units and
one or more water units where each of the one or more flavor units
include a transportation unit, the transportation unit including a
barrier element with one or more openings; a blockage device
configured to close the one or more openings to prevent a flow from
at least one of the one or more flavor units; and/or a movement
device configured to move the blockage device to a first position
relative to the one or more openings which allows for a passage of
one or more fluid elements and one gaseous elements through the one
or more openings in the blockage device.
[0076] The dispensing device may further include a carbonated unit.
In another example, the movement device is a magnet. In another
example, the movement device is an electro-magnet. In another
example, the dispensing device may have at least one of the one or
more flavor units may be selectable. In addition, the at least one
of the one or more flavor units may be automatically
selectable.
[0077] In one embodiment, the cartridge includes: a body with a
first groove and a second groove, the body including a body inlet
area and a body outlet area; an O-ring coupled to body via the
first groove; a throttle pin coupled to the inlet area; a spring
cap with a groove area, a spring cap inlet area, and a spring cap
outlet area; a spring cap O-ring coupled to the spring cap via the
groove area; a spring coupled to a bottom retainer; a diaphragm
coupled to the bottom retainer; and a top retainer coupled to the
diaphragm.
[0078] In addition, the cartridge may be configured to be inserted
into a device. Further, the cartridge may be configured to be
inserted into an existing device where the existing device has one
or more inlet ports and outlet ports in any locations on the
existing device. In addition, a cartridge inlet area and a
cartridge outlet area may be in series with each other. Further, a
cartridge inlet area and a cartridge outlet area may be at a 90
degree angle to each other (and/or any other angle and/or any other
angle disclosed and/or shown in this document). In addition, the
body may include a 360 degree outlet passage. Further, the spring
cap may be configured to create a seal by compressing the diaphragm
to the body. Further, the cartridge may include a CF Valve.
[0079] In another embodiment, a movement system includes: a
cartridge with a cartridge inlet area and a cartridge outlet area;
a housing with a housing inlet area and a housing outlet area;
wherein the cartridge transfers at least one or more gases and one
or more liquids from the housing inlet area to the housing outlet
area independent of a relative position of the cartridge inlet area
to the housing inlet area and the cartridge outlet area to the
housing outlet area. In addition, the cartridge may include a body
with a first groove, a body inlet area, and a body outlet area. In
addition, the cartridge may include an O-ring coupled to body via
the first groove. Further, the cartridge may include a throttle pin
coupled to the inlet area. In addition, the cartridge may include a
spring cap with a groove area, a spring cap inlet area, a spring
cap outlet area, and a spring cap O-ring coupled to the spring cap
via the groove area. Further, the cartridge may include a spring
coupled to a bottom retainer. Further, the cartridge may include a
diaphragm coupled to the bottom retainer. In addition, the
cartridge may include a top retainer coupled to the diaphragm. In
addition, the cartridge may include a CF Valve.
[0080] In another embodiment, a cartridge includes: a body with a
first groove and a second groove, the body including a body inlet
area and a body outlet area; an O-ring coupled to body via the
first groove; a throttle pin including a pin and a pinhead coupled
to the inlet area; a spring cap with a groove area, a spring cap
inlet area, and a spring cap outlet area; a spring cap O-ring
coupled to the spring cap via the groove area; a spring coupled to
a bottom retainer; a diaphragm coupled to the bottom retainer; and
a top retainer coupled to the diaphragm. In addition, the at least
one of the pin and the pinhead may have a ratio of greater than 1
to the body. Further, the at least one of the pin and the pinhead
may have a ratio of less than 1 to the body. In addition, the
cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a device. Further,
the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into an existing
device where the existing device has one or more inlet ports and
outlet ports in any locations on the existing device.
[0081] In one embodiment, a cleaning system for a drink dispensing
device includes: a cleaner canister coupled to a water source; a
cleaner CFValve coupled to the water source which provides a first
water flow to the cleaner canister. The cleaner canister may
provide a cleaner solution to one or more parts of the drink
dispensing device.
[0082] In another example, the cleaning system may include a
sanitizer canister coupled to the water source and a sanitizer
CFValve coupled to the water source which provides a second water
flow to the sanitizer canister. The sanitizer canister may provide
a sanitizer solution to one or more parts of the drink dispensing
device. In another example, the cleaning system may include a water
flush device coupled to the water source and a water flush CFValve
coupled to the water source which provides a third water flow to
the one or more parts of the drink dispensing device.
[0083] In another example, the cleaning system may include an inlet
dry breaking fitting and an outlet dry breaking fitting on the
sanitizer canister. In another example, the cleaning system may
include an inlet dry breaking fitting and an outlet dry breaking
fitting on the cleaner canister. In another example, the cleaning
system may include a total dissolved solids device which measures
an inlet total dissolved solids and an outlet total dissolved
solids. In another example, the cleaning system may include a
sanitizer canister coupled to the water source and a sanitizer
CFValve coupled to the water source which provides a second water
flow to the sanitizer canister. The sanitizer canister may provide
a sanitizer solution to one or more parts of the drink dispensing
device. A water flush device coupled to the water source and a
water flush CFValve coupled to the water source which provides a
third water flow to the one or more parts of the drink dispensing
device. A total dissolved solids device which measures an inlet
total dissolved solids and an outlet total dissolved solids. In
another example, the cleaning system may include a sanitizer
canister coupled to the water source and a sanitizer CFValve
coupled to the water source which provides a second water flow to
the sanitizer canister. The sanitizer canister may provide a
sanitizer solution to one or more parts of the drink dispensing
device; a water flush device coupled to the water source and a
water flush CFValve coupled to the water source which provides a
third water flow to the one or more parts of the drink dispensing
device. A total dissolved solids device which measures an inlet
total dissolved solids and an outlet total dissolved solids. An
inlet dry breaking fitting and an outlet dry breaking fitting on
the sanitizer canister. An inlet dry breaking fitting and an outlet
dry breaking fitting on the cleaner canister. A controller that
controls one or more ratios based on the inlet total dissolved
solids and the outlet total dissolved solids. In another example,
one or more of the cleaner CFValve, the sanitizer CFValve, and the
water flush CFValve may maintain a relative constant flow of fluid
from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet, the CF
Valve including: a) a valve housing having an inlet port and an
outlet port adapted to be connected to the variable pressure fluid
supply and the fluid outlet; b) a diaphragm chamber interposed
between the inlet port and the outlet port; c) a cup contained
within the diaphragm chamber; d) a diaphragm closing the cup; e) a
piston assembly secured to a center of the diaphragm, the piston
assembly having a cap and a base; f) a stem projecting from the cap
through a first passageway in a barrier wall to terminate in a
valve head; and g) a spring in the cup coacting with the base of
the piston assembly for urging the diaphragm into a closed
position, and the spring being responsive to fluid pressure above a
predetermined level to adjust a size of a control orifice. In
another example, one or more of the cleaner CFValve, the sanitizer
CFValve, and the water flush CFValve is configured to maintain a
relative constant flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid
supply to a fluid outlet, the CF Valve including: a base having a
wall segment terminating in an upper rim, and a projecting first
flange; a cap having a projecting ledge and a projecting second
flange, the wall segment of the base being located inside the cap
with a space between the upper rim of the base and the projecting
ledge of the cap; a barrier wall subdividing an interior of a
housing into a head section and a base section; a modulating
assembly subdividing the base section into a fluid chamber and a
spring chamber; an inlet in the cap for connecting the head section
to a fluid source; a port in the barrier wall connecting the head
section to the fluid chamber, the port being aligned with a central
first axis of the CF Valve; an outlet in the cap communicating with
the fluid chamber, the outlet being aligned on a second axis
transverse to the first axis; a stem projecting from the modulating
assembly along the first axis through the port into the head
section; a diaphragm supporting the modulating assembly within the
housing for movement in opposite directions along the first axis, a
spring in the spring chamber, the spring being arranged to urge the
modulating assembly into a closed position at which the diaphragm
is in sealing contact with the barrier wall, and the spring being
responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined level to adjust
a size of a control orifice.
[0084] In one embodiment, a control device may include one or more
processors to determine drink dispensing data, a housing with at
least one inlet and at least one outlet, the housing containing a
control unit and a solenoid, where the control unit maintains a
relative constant flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid
supply to a fluid outlet, the control unit including: a) a valve
housing having an inlet port and an outlet port adapted to be
connected to the variable pressure fluid supply and the fluid
outlet; b) a diaphragm chamber interposed between the inlet port
and the outlet port; c) a cup contained within the diaphragm
chamber; d) a diaphragm closing the cup; e) a piston assembly
secured to a center of the diaphragm, the piston assembly having a
cap and a base; f) a stem projecting from the cap through a first
passageway in a barrier wall to terminate in a valve head; and g) a
spring in the cup coacting with the base of the piston assembly for
urging the diaphragm into a closed position, and the spring being
responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined level to adjust
a size of a control orifice.
[0085] In another example, the one or more processors transmit the
drink dispensing data to a remote device. In another example, the
remote device transmits commands to the one or more processors
based on the transmitted drink dispensing data. Further, the remote
device initiates one or more actions based on the transmitted drink
dispensing data. In addition, the one or more actions is at least a
product order. In another example, the control device may include
an orifice in the housing. In addition, the orifice may be located
in the at least one outlet. Further, the orifice may be a fixed
orifice or an adjustable orifice. In another example, at least one
outlet includes a first outlet and a second outlet. In addition,
the solenoid may be located at a dividing section connecting the
first outlet and the second outlet. In addition, the solenoid may
be located at a combining section connecting the first outlet and
the second outlet. In another example, the solenoid may be located
downstream of the control unit. In addition, the solenoid may be
located upstream of the control unit.
[0086] In another embodiment, a drink dispensing device may include
one or more processors, a drink dispensing item located above a
drink container positioning area, and/or a first sensor configured
to determine when a drink container is located in the drink
container positioning area where the one or more processors may
initiate a drink container filling operation based on a first
signal from the first sensor that the drink container is located in
the drink container positioning area.
[0087] In another example, the one or more processors may
discontinue the drink container filling operation based on a second
signal from the first sensor that indicates a stoppage of the drink
container filling operation. In addition, the first sensor may be
positioned at an angle of 20 degrees to the drink positioning area.
Further, the drink dispensing device may include including a second
sensor positioned at a borderline area of the drink container
positioning area. In addition, the drink dispensing device may
include a third sensor positioned at a horizontal line of the drink
container positioning area. In various examples, the first sensor
may be positioned at an angle in the range of 15 degrees to 25
degrees to the drink positioning area.
[0088] In light of the foregoing, it will now be appreciated by
those skilled in the art that the present disclosure embodies a
number of significant advantages, the foremost being the automatic
pressure responsive control of fluid flow between a variable
pressure source and an applicator from which the fluid is to be
applied in a substantially uniform manner. The regulating valve is
designed for low cost mass production, having a minimum number of
component parts, the majority of which can be precision molded and
automatically assembled.
[0089] In one example, a regulating valve for maintaining a
substantially constant flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid
supply to a fluid outlet includes: a housing having axially aligned
inlet and outlet ports adapted to be connected respectively to the
fluid supply and the fluid outlet, and a diaphragm chamber
interposed between the inlet and outlet ports, the inlet port being
separated from the diaphragm chamber by a barrier wall, the barrier
wall having a first passageway extending therethrough from an inner
side facing the diaphragm chamber to an outer side facing the inlet
port; a cup contained within the diaphragm chamber, the cup having
a cylindrical side wall extending from a bottom wall facing the
outlet port to a circular rim surrounding an open mouth facing the
inner side of the barrier wall, the cylindrical side and bottom
walls of the cup being spaced inwardly from adjacent interior
surfaces of the housing to define a second passageway connecting
the diaphragm chamber to the outlet port; a resilient disc-shaped
diaphragm closing the open mouth of the cup, the diaphragm being
axially supported exclusively by the circular rim and having a
peripheral flange overlapping the cylindrical side wall; a piston
assembly secured to the center of the diaphragm, the piston
assembly having a cap on one side of the diaphragm facing the inner
side of the barrier wall, and a base suspended from the opposite
side of the diaphragm and projecting into the interior of the cup;
a stem projecting from the cap through the first passageway in the
barrier wall to terminate in a valve head, the valve head and the
outer side of the barrier wall being configured to define a control
orifice connecting the inlet port to the diaphragm chamber via the
first passageway; and a spring in the cup coacting with the base of
the piston assembly for resiliently urging the diaphragm into a
closed position against the inner side of the barrier wall to
thereby prevent fluid flow from the inlet port via the first
passageway into the diaphragm chamber; and the spring being
responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined level applied to
the diaphragm via the inlet port and the first passageway by
resiliently accommodating movement of the diaphragm away from the
inner side of the barrier wall, with the valve head on the stem
being correspondingly moved to adjust the size of the control
orifice, thereby maintaining a substantially constant flow of fluid
from the inlet port through the first and second passageways to the
outlet port for delivery to the fluid outlet.
[0090] In another example, a regulating valve for controlling the
flow of fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid
outlet includes: a housing having axially aligned inlet and outlet
ports adapted to be connected respectively to the fluid supply and
the fluid outlet, and a diaphragm chamber interposed between the
inlet and outlet ports, the inlet port being separated from the
diaphragm chamber by a barrier wall, the barrier wall having a
first passageway extending therethrough from an inner side facing
the diaphragm chamber to an outer side facing the inlet port; a cup
contained within the diaphragm chamber, the cup having a
cylindrical side wall extending from a bottom wall facing the
outlet port to a circular rim surrounding an open mouth facing the
inner side of the barrier wall, the cylindrical side and bottom
walls of the cup being spaced inwardly from adjacent interior
surfaces of the housing to define a second passageway connecting
the diaphragm chamber to the outlet port; a resilient disc-shaped
diaphragm closing the open mouth of the cup, the diaphragm being
supported exclusively by the circular rim and having a peripheral
flange overlapping the cylindrical side wall; a piston assembly
secured to the center of the diaphragm, the piston assembly having
a base projecting into the interior of the cup; a spring in the cup
coacting with the base of the piston assembly for resiliently
urging the diaphragm into a closed position against the inner side
of the barrier wall to thereby prevent fluid flow from the inlet
port via the first passageway into the diaphragm chamber; and the
spring being responsive to fluid pressure above a predetermined
level applied to the diaphragm via the inlet port and the first
passageway by resiliently accommodating movement of the diaphragm
away from the inner side of the barrier wall, thereby accommodating
a flow of fluid from the inlet port through the first and second
passageways to the outlet port for delivery to the fluid
outlet.
[0091] In another example, the control orifice is defined by frusto
conical surfaces on the valve head and the outer side of the
barrier wall. In another example, the cross sectional area of the
control orifice is less than the cross sectional area of the first
passageway throughout the range of movement of the valve head in
response to fluid pressure applied to the diaphragm. In another
example, the regulating valve further includes a vent passageway
leading from the interior of the cup to the exterior of the
housing. In another example, the housing is exteriorly provided
with a deflecting surface adjacent to the outlet of the vent
passageway, the deflecting surface being configured and arranged to
direct fluid escaping from the interior of the cup in the general
direction of fluid flowing through the valve, but angularly away
from the valve axis. In another example, the base of the piston
assembly is spaced from the bottom wall of the cup by an open gap,
and wherein the spring means comprises a coiled spring bridging the
gap and in contact at its opposite ends with the bottom wall and
the base. In another example, the piston assembly is centered
within the cup solely by the resilient support provided by the
diaphragm. In another example, the housing is comprised of mating
plastic inlet and outlet sections, the sections being formed by
injection molding and being permanently assembled one to the other
by sonic welding. In another example, the cap and base of the
piston assembly are each injection molded of plastic and joined one
to the other by sonic welding, with a central portion of the
diaphragm held therebetween.
[0092] In one example, a dispensing device includes a valve
configured to interact with an inlet stream, the inlet stream
having a first pressure, the valve having an outlet area with an
outlet stream, the outlet stream having a second pressure, and a
solenoid which interacts with the outlet stream. In addition, the
dispensing device may have: at least one of the inlet stream and
the outlet stream being a carbonated water; the first pressure is
greater than the second pressure; a size of the solenoid is reduced
based on a reduction in pressure from the first pressure to the
second pressure; a size of the solenoid is reduced based on the
valve; the inlet stream is a utility line; the orifice is fixed;
the orifice is adjustable; the orifices are both fixed and
adjustable; and the valve is a CF Valve. The CF Valve is a
regulating valve for maintaining a substantially constant flow of
fluid from a variable pressure fluid supply to a fluid outlet, the
CFValve may including one or more of: a) a housing having axially
aligned inlet and outlet ports adapted to be connected respectively
to the variable fluid supply and the fluid outlet; b) a diaphragm
chamber interposed between the inlet and the outlet ports, the
inlet port being separated from the diaphragm chamber by a barrier
wall, the barrier wall having a first passageway extending
therethrough from an inner side facing the diaphragm chamber to an
outer side facing the inlet port; c) a cup contained within the
diaphragm chamber, the cup having a cylindrical side wall extending
from a bottom wall facing the outlet port to a circular rim
surrounding an open mouth facing the inner side of the barrier
wall, the cylindrical side and bottom walls of the cup being spaced
inwardly from adjacent interior surfaces of the housing to define a
second passageway connecting the diaphragm chamber to the outlet
port; d) a resilient disc-shaped diaphragm closing the open mouth
of the cup, the diaphragm being axially supported by the circular
rim and having a peripheral flange overlapping the cylindrical side
wall; e) a piston assembly secured to the center of the diaphragm,
the piston assembly having a cap on one side of the diaphragm
facing the inner side of the barrier wall, and a base suspended
from the opposite side of the diaphragm and projecting into the
interior of the cup; f) a stem projecting from the cap through the
first passageway in the barrier wall to terminate in a valve head,
the valve head and the outer side of the barrier wall being
configured to define a control orifice connecting the inlet port to
the diaphragm chamber via the first passageway; and g) a spring
device in the cup coacting with the base of the piston assembly for
resiliently urging the diaphragm into a closed position against the
inner side of the barrier wall to thereby prevent fluid flow from
the inlet port via the first passageway into the diaphragm chamber,
the spring device being responsive to fluid pressure above a
predetermined level applied to the diaphragm via the inlet port and
the first passageway by accommodating movement of the diaphragm
away from the inner side of the barrier wall, with the valve head
on the stem being moved to adjust the size of the control orifice,
thereby maintaining a constant flow of fluid from the inlet port
through the first and second passageways to the outlet port for
delivery to the fluid outlet.
[0093] In another example, the dispensing device may further
include: a dispensing unit including one or more flavor units and
one or more water units where each of the one or more flavor units
include a transportation unit, the transportation unit including a
barrier element with one or more openings; a blockage device
configured to close the one or more openings to prevent a flow from
at least one of the one or more flavor units; and/or a movement
device configured to move the blockage device to a first position
relative to the one or more openings which allows for a passage of
one or more fluid elements and one gaseous elements through the one
or more openings in the blockage device.
[0094] The dispensing device may further include a carbonated unit.
In another example, the movement device is a magnet. In another
example, the movement device is an electro-magnet. In another
example, the dispensing device may have at least one of the one or
more flavor units may be selectable. In addition, the at least one
of the one or more flavor units may be automatically
selectable.
[0095] In one embodiment, the cartridge includes: a body with a
first groove and a second groove, the body including a body inlet
area and a body outlet area; an o-ring coupled to body via the
first groove; a throttle pin coupled to the inlet area; a spring
cap with a groove area, a spring cap inlet area, and a spring cap
outlet area; a spring cap o-ring coupled to the spring cap via the
groove area; a spring coupled to a bottom retainer; a diaphragm
coupled to the bottom retainer; and a top retainer coupled to the
diaphragm.
[0096] In addition, the cartridge may be configured to be inserted
into a device. Further, the cartridge may be configured to be
inserted into an existing device where the existing device has one
or more inlet ports and outlet ports in any locations on the
existing device. In addition, a cartridge inlet area and a
cartridge outlet area may be in series with each other. Further, a
cartridge inlet area and a cartridge outlet area may be at a 90
degree angle to each other (and/or any other angle and/or any other
angle disclosed and/or shown in this document). In addition, the
body may include a 360 degree outlet passage. Further, the spring
cap may be configured to create a seal by compressing the diaphragm
to the body. Further, the cartridge may include a CF Valve.
[0097] In another embodiment, a movement system includes: a
cartridge with a cartridge inlet area and a cartridge outlet area;
a housing with a housing inlet area and a housing outlet area;
wherein the cartridge transfers at least one or more gases and one
or more liquids from the housing inlet area to the housing outlet
area independent of a relative position of the cartridge inlet area
to the housing inlet area and the cartridge outlet area to the
housing outlet area. In addition, the cartridge may include a body
with a first groove, a body inlet area, and a body outlet area. In
addition, the cartridge may include an o-ring coupled to body via
the first groove. Further, the cartridge may include a throttle pin
coupled to the inlet area. In addition, the cartridge may include a
spring cap with a groove area, a spring cap inlet area, a spring
cap outlet area, and a spring cap o-ring coupled to the spring cap
via the groove area. Further, the cartridge may include a spring
coupled to a bottom retainer. Further, the cartridge may include a
diaphragm coupled to the bottom retainer. In addition, the
cartridge may include a top retainer coupled to the diaphragm. In
addition, the cartridge may include a CF Valve.
[0098] In another embodiment, a cartridge includes: a body with a
first groove and a second groove, the body including a body inlet
area and a body outlet area; an o-ring coupled to body via the
first groove; a throttle pin including a pin and a pinhead coupled
to the inlet area; a spring cap with a groove area, a spring cap
inlet area, and a spring cap outlet area; a spring cap o-ring
coupled to the spring cap via the groove area; a spring coupled to
a bottom retainer; a diaphragm coupled to the bottom retainer; and
a top retainer coupled to the diaphragm. In addition, the at least
one of the pin and the pinhead may have a ratio of greater than 1
to the body. Further, the at least one of the pin and the pinhead
may have a ratio of less than 1 to the body. In addition, the
cartridge may be configured to be inserted into a device. Further,
the cartridge may be configured to be inserted into an existing
device where the existing device has one or more inlet ports and
outlet ports in any locations on the existing device.
[0099] In one embodiment, a cartridge may include: a body with a
first groove and a second groove, the body including a body inlet
area and a body outlet area; an o-ring coupled to body via the
first groove; a throttle pin coupled to a top retainer through the
inlet area; a spring cap with a groove area; a spring cap o-ring
coupled to the spring cap via the groove area; a spring coupled to
a bottom retainer; a diaphragm coupled to the bottom retainer; and
the top retainer coupled to the diaphragm.
[0100] In addition, the cartridge may be inserted into a manifold
of a bar gun system. Further, the bar gun system may include one or
more solenoids located inside a bar gun; the manifold; the bar gun
system, and/or any other element disclosed in this disclosure. In
addition, a cartridge inlet area and a cartridge outlet area may be
in series with each other. Further, a cartridge inlet area and a
cartridge outlet area may be at a 90 degree angle to each other.
Further, the body may include a 360 degree outlet passage. In
addition, the spring cap may create a seal by compressing the
diaphragm to the body.
[0101] In another embodiment, a valve may include: an inlet mount
coupled to a first assembly O-ring and a second assembly O-ring; a
first throttle pin coupled to the inlet mount and a body; a second
throttle pin coupled to the inlet mount and the body; a first
diaphragm assembly coupled to the body and a first spring; a second
diaphragm assembly coupled to the body and a second spring; a
spring cup coupled to the first spring, the second spring, and the
body; and the body coupled to the inlet mount.
[0102] In addition, the inlet mount may be coupled to the first
assembly O-ring at a first inlet mount location and the second
assembly O-ring may be coupled to the inlet mount at a second inlet
mount location. Further, the first assembly O-ring may be a first
size and the second assembly O-ring may be a second size. In
addition, the first throttle pin may be coupled to the inlet mount
at a first inlet mount throttle pin location and the first throttle
pin may be coupled to the body at a first throttle pin body
location and the second throttle pin may be coupled to the inlet
mount at a second inlet mount throttle pin location and the second
throttle pins may be coupled to the body at a second throttle pin
body location. In addition, the first throttle pin may be a first
size and the second throttle pin may be a second size. In addition,
the first diaphragm assembly may be coupled to the body at a first
diaphragm assembly body location and the second diaphragm assembly
may be coupled to the body at a second diaphragm assembly body
location. Further, the first diaphragm assembly may be a first size
and the second diaphragm assembly may be a second size. Further,
the first spring may be a first size and the second spring may be a
second size.
[0103] In another embodiment, a bar gun device may include: a
manifold; a first tube; a second tube; an Nth tube; a first CF
Valve located at a first position inside the first tube; a second
CF valve located at a second position inside the second tube; an
Nth CF valve located at an Nth position inside of the Nth tube; and
a bar gun.
[0104] In addition, the first location may be a different position
than the second location or the third location. Further, the bar
gun device may include a first solenoid before the first CF valve,
a second solenoid before the second CF valve, and an Nth solenoid
before the Nth CF valve. In addition, the bar gun device may
include a communication device which communicates between the bar
gun and at least one of the first solenoid, the second solenoid,
and the Nth solenoid. In addition, the communication device may
actuate one or more of the first solenoid, the second solenoid, and
the Nth solenoid.
[0105] As used herein, the term "mobile device" refers to a device
that may from time to time have a position that changes. Such
changes in position may comprise of changes to direction, distance,
and/or orientation. In particular examples, a mobile device may
comprise of a cellular telephone, wireless communication device,
user equipment, laptop computer, other personal communication
system ("PCS") device, personal digital assistant ("PDA"), personal
audio device ("PAD"), portable navigational device, or other
portable communication device. A mobile device may also comprise of
a processor or computing platform adapted to perform functions
controlled by machine-readable instructions.
[0106] The methods and/or methodologies described herein may be
implemented by various means depending upon applications according
to particular examples. For example, such methodologies may be
implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or combinations
thereof. In a hardware implementation, for example, a processing
unit may be implemented within one or more application specific
integrated circuits ("ASICs"), digital signal processors ("DSPs"),
digital signal processing devices ("DSPDs"), programmable logic
devices ("PLDs"), field programmable gate arrays ("FPGAs"),
processors, controllers, micro-controllers, microprocessors,
electronic devices, other devices units designed to perform the
functions described herein, or combinations thereof.
[0107] Some portions of the detailed description included herein
are presented in terms of algorithms or symbolic representations of
operations on binary digital signals stored within a memory of a
specific apparatus or a special purpose computing device or
platform. In the context of this particular specification, the term
specific apparatus or the like includes a general purpose computer
once it is programmed to perform particular operations pursuant to
instructions from program software. Algorithmic descriptions or
symbolic representations are examples of techniques used by those
of ordinary skill in the arts to convey the substance of their work
to others skilled in the art. An algorithm is considered to be a
self-consistent sequence of operations or similar signal processing
leading to a desired result. In this context, operations or
processing involve physical manipulation of physical quantities.
Typically, although not necessarily, such quantities may take the
form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored,
transferred, combined, compared or otherwise manipulated. It has
proven convenient at times, principally for reasons of common
usage, to refer to such signals as bits, data, values, elements,
symbols, characters, terms, numbers, numerals, or the like. It
should be understood, however, that all of these or similar terms
are to be associated with appropriate physical quantities and are
merely convenient labels. Unless specifically stated otherwise, as
apparent from the discussion herein, it is appreciated that
throughout this specification discussions utilizing terms such as
"processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining" or the like
refer to actions or processes of a specific apparatus, such as a
special purpose computer or a similar special purpose electronic
computing device. In the context of this specification, therefore,
a special purpose computer or a similar special purpose electronic
computing device is capable of manipulating or transforming
signals, typically represented as physical electronic or magnetic
quantities within memories, registers, or other information storage
devices, transmission devices, or display devices of the special
purpose computer or similar special purpose electronic computing
device.
[0108] Reference throughout this specification to "one example,"
"an example," "embodiment," and/or "another example" should be
considered to mean that the particular features, structures, or
characteristics may be combined in one or more examples. Any
combination of any element in this disclosure with any other
element in this disclosure is hereby disclosed.
[0109] While there has been illustrated and described what are
presently considered to be example features, it will be understood
by those skilled in the art that various other modifications may be
made, and equivalents may be substituted, without departing from
the disclosed subject matter. Additionally, many modifications may
be made to adapt a particular situation to the teachings of the
disclosed subject matter without departing from the central concept
described herein. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosed
subject matter not be limited to the particular examples
disclosed.
* * * * *